Open water swimming is how we all originally experienced the water but over the past century the growth of heated, sanitised indoor pools has convinced some people that open water is dirty and dangerous. The reality is that many swimmers are rediscovering the freedom and joy of swimming outside and the sport is becoming increasingly popular.

The Open Water Swimming Show is a unique opportunity to find out more about this fast growing activity, to hear from expert speakers, test out the latest kit and, for the more adventurous, take an early season dip.

The Open Water Swimming Show was first held in 2012, also at the Reading Lake Hotel, as the H2Open Day. After skipping 2013 it is returning in 2014 and expects to attract up to 500 visitors. This year, additional activities include an open water swimming master class, a core strength class and free coached sessions to give visitors a safe and enjoyable first experience of open water. Veteran open water swimmers are also catered for with a timed swim.

This year we’re hoping for better weather but persistent rain and 11 degree Celsius water didn’t put swimmers off in 2012.

The event has been created by H2Open Magazine, a specialist open water publication that launched in 2011.